Spanbaum

Handmade tree ornament

A spanbaum as the central column of a Christmas pyramid A spanbaum ("wood shaving tree"), variously referred to in English as a hand-shaved tree, wood chip tree or span tree, is a handmade ornamental tree which is usually part of a pyramid ornament. They are mainly manufactured in woodturning workshops in the Ore Mountains of Saxony in eastern Germany. Their method of production is known locally as Spanbaumstechen.

[edit] The choice of material is especially important. Only lime wood with a straight grain is suitable.

[edit] To make the spanbaum, first of all a conical blank of the tree is turned and a small disc is made for the base. The conical blank is clamped in a vice and the branches carved symmetrically using a chisel, shaving by shaving, on all sides.

A spanbaum

A Kräuselbaum, a type of spanbaum

The spanbaum brings a subtle, handcrafted charm that cuts through the flash of tinsel and LED lights. Its delicate wooden shavings catch the candlelight in a way plastic ornaments never can, casting soft, flickering shadows that echo the quiet of a snow‑covered forest. Because each piece is turned and shaved by a single craftsman in the Ore Mountains, no two trees are identical, meaning you’re adding a tiny slice of German folk art to your home. The natural wood also ages beautifully, developing a warm patina that pairs effortlessly with traditional British décor – think tartan throws, brass candlesticks and a pot of mulled wine.

When choosing a spanbaum, start by checking the wood grain; a tight, even texture indicates skilled turning and reduces the risk of splintering later. Look for a sturdy central column – the spine should be solid, not just a thin dowel – as this bears the weight of the shaving layers. Authentic pieces often carry a small maker's stamp or a tag from an Ore Mountain workshop; this is a good sign of provenance. Size matters: larger trees make a statement on a grand pyramid, while a petite version works well on a tabletop display. Finally, consider the finish – a light natural oil lets the wood breathe, while a heavy varnish can dull the subtle grain.

A spanbaum shines brightest when lit from below. Place it inside a traditional Christmas pyramid or on a low wooden stand, and illuminate it with a single tealight or a small LED candle. Avoid harsh, direct lighting; instead, let the soft glow highlight the intricate shavings and create a gentle halo of light. If you have a wooden or stone mantel, set the tree at the centre and add a sprig of holly or a few pinecones for a natural accent. Rotate the ornament occasionally during the season to catch different angles of the candlelight – this tiny movement brings the tree to life and keeps the festive ambience fresh throughout the holidays.